Management of Abnormal Pap Smears Q & A

What causes abnormal Pap smear results?

In most cases, abnormal Pap smear results are due to vaginal infections or inflammation. They could also be the result of recent sexual activity. Additionally, it’s possible to have an inconclusive result, even when there’s nothing wrong.

However, in some cases, your abnormal test results may be due to a more serious condition. For example, you may also have herpes, the human papillomavirus (HPV), trichomoniasis, or cancerous or precancerous cells.

What happens if I have an abnormal Pap smear?

Dr. Tajzoy schedules follow-up appointments to discuss your results and the next steps, which will depend on your specific situation. If your results indicate an infection or inflammation, he offers treatments to help your body fight off the infection. You may also need additional testing, which could include another Pap smear, HPV test, or a colposcopy procedure.

A colposcopy is a noninvasive procedure that helps Dr. Tajzoy examine your cervix in more detail. While you recline on a treatment table, he positions the colposcope outside of your vagina, inserts a speculum to hold your vaginal walls open, and then looks through the colposcope, which stays outside of your body and provides a magnified view of your cervix.

If the colposcopy shows signs of cancerous or precancerous cells, Dr. Tajzoy may perform a biopsy to gather a tissue sample for further testing. He can also diagnose conditions like HPV during a colposcopy.

He can remove abnormal or cancerous cells with procedures such as cryotherapy or excision. While there’s no cure for HPV, Dr. Tajzoy can provide advice to help you improve your immune system so your body can fight off the virus.

If you’re due for a Pap smear or if you’ve had abnormal results and want to work with an expert physician who makes an effort to build a lasting relationship with you, call Emil Tajzoy, MD, or schedule an appointment online today.